In a bizarre moment during the IPL clash between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Mumbai Indians (MI), Ishan Kishan stunned fans and pundits alike by voluntarily walking off the field—despite not being out. The moment, which occurred in the third over, sparked heavy criticism from former cricketer Virender Sehwag, who slammed Kishan for what he called a “complete brain fade.”

The Controversial Exit

Facing Deepak Chahar, Kishan was struck by a ball that darted past the leg side, close to the bat. No strong appeal was made by either the bowler or wicketkeeper—yet the umpire made a subtle, hesitant gesture with his finger. That’s when Kishan, without waiting for confirmation or opting for a DRS review, began walking off the field.

Replays later confirmed there was no contact with the bat or body—and the delivery should have been called a wide.

Sehwag: ‘Stop This Nonsense’

Sehwag, speaking on Cricbuzz, didn’t hold back:

“It was total brain fade. You’re not out, the umpire isn’t sure, and yet you walk? Why? The umpires are also taking money—let them earn it. Let them make the call!”

He added that while sportsmanship is admirable, this kind of “unnecessary honesty” makes no sense when there’s no edge or obvious dismissal.

“If he had nicked it and walked, fine. That’s the spirit of the game. But in this case, he was clearly not out. I don’t understand this.”

DRS Not Used, Confusion Reigns

Adding to the confusion, Kishan didn’t take the DRS—despite having it available. His decision to walk baffled both his team and viewers, especially when slow-motion replays showed the ball missed everything and should have been declared a wide.

This moment proved costly for SRH, who eventually lost the match by seven wickets to Mumbai Indians.